CMHA Ottawa brings mental illnesses out of the shadows with new video

February 13, 2014

CMHA Ottawa is working to combat stereotypes of mental health conditions by sharing personal stories of people living with mental health issues.

In a new video released by the branch, local artist Curtis Shaw shares his experience of living with depression and explains how practicing the Japanese art of origami helped him through his depression and ultimately led him to a career as an artist.

Curtis was encouraged in his art by Moods Expressed, a CMHA Ottawa working group which helps artists living with mental health issues market and promote their work. The group encourages members to recognize their talents by helping to showcase their work at local art shows and festivals. Curtis says the group’s encouragement and the opportunity to share his art “felt like a new purpose in life,” and helped him on the road to recovery.

For more information on Curtis, check out video below. To learn more about Moods Expressed, please visit its website.